An erect penis that is deep red in color is a positive sign and one that most men are proud of; however, when the erection subsides and the redness remains - especially for hours, or even days, after the activities are over - it is quite natural for men to become concerned. This condition, which is frequently referred to as simply "red penis" affects men of all ages and races. While it can be alarming, it is most often easily solved with a little extra attention to penis care.

The primary cause of red penis

Most often, red penis is simply a result of rough handling, especially during solo sessions. A too-tight grip or long minutes of yanking, bending and twisting can be seriously irritating; the penis responds to this onslaught by routing blood to just below the surface of the skin as a means to provide healing for stressed tissue. Usually, all that is needed to address the problem is taking a few days off from similar activities, using a personal lubricant, and applying a more gentle touch.

Other possible culprits

1) Balanitis. This condition, in spite of the ominous-sounding name, is nothing more than a surface infection that occurs most frequently in uncircumcised men. In addition to redness, the area around the head of the penis may be swollen, sore, and even warm to the touch, and a yellowish discharge may also be present. This common issue is mainly related to hygiene; men who are a little lax about cleaning underneath the foreskin are most often affected. A doctor can prescribe antibacterial medications to treat the problem, and stepping up the hygiene (without overdoing the scrubbing) can help prevent future occurrence.

2) Yeast infection. Another topical skin condition, yeast infection (often known as thrush) occurs when the fungal spores that are always present on the skin are triggered into a period of rapid growth. The yeast can cause redness, itching, soreness and a whitish, lumpy discharge. Over-the-counter antifungal creams are generally effective; partners of men with thrush should also be treated, as the condition can easily be passed between partners, even if one or both are asymptomatic.

3) Psoriasis. Men with this dermatological condition generally have psoriasis on other parts of their body, as well as the penis. Psoriasis often presents as red, shiny, flaky patches of skin, usually around the size of a quarter. They may be itchy, and the flakes of outer skin may peel away to reveal, tight, shiny red tissue underneath. Corticosteroid creams are often prescribed for treatment, but since these medications can be damaging to the penile skin, it is recommended that men talk to their doctors about an alternative. Numerous studies have shown that topical application of vitamins A and E can be effective in treating psoriasis.

Now, unless the source of redness is fairly obvious - for instance, the penile skin is only red in the hours or days after an especially vigorous solo session, it is best not to attempt self-diagnosis. A doctor or dermatologist is nearly always the best option, because they can identify the exact cause of the problem through lab testing and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

For skin that is irritated or broken, or in case of a penile discharge, no over-the-counter creams or ointments should be used except under the advice of a doctor, as improper treatment can actually make the problem much worse.

On the other hand, for skin that is normal aside from ongoing redness, a high-quality penis health cream(health professionals recommendMan 1 Man Oil) may also offer an effective solution. While it is not a cure for issues like fungal infections or dermatological conditions, a cream that is enriched with vitamins A and E, as well as numerous other vitamins and amino acids, can support healthy, resilient skin. Adding a solution like this to the daily routine before problems occur can help offset the minor damage caused by everyday wear and tear and ensure that the skin has the nutrients it needs to stay strong, supple and responsive.